🪐 GCSE Physics Newsletter: Work Done

Physics Newsletter: Work Done

Part 1 - Keywords:

• Work Done

• Force

• Displacement

• Equation

• Joules

• Newtons

• Distance

Part 2 - Key Facts:

What Is Work Done?

• Work is done when a force causes an object to move through a distance.

• If an object does not move, no work is done, even if a force is applied.

• Work is measured in joules (J), and it depends on the force applied and the distance the object moves in the direction of the force.

Equation for Work Done:

• The equation for work done (W) is:
  W=F×s
  Where:

  • W = work done in joules (J)

  • F = force applied in newtons (N)

  • s = distance moved in meters (m)

Key Points to Remember:

• Work done is directly proportional to both the force applied and the distance moved.

• The force must act in the same direction as the displacement for work to be done.

• No displacement = no work done, even if a force is applied.

Just wanted to quickly share this article in case it helps anyone out with revision and mocks.

Part 3 - Example Calculation:

Example 1:

A person pushes a box with a force of 10 N and moves it 5 meters across the floor.
Using the formula:

W=F×s

W=10 N×5 m=50 J

So, the work done is 50 joules.

Example 2:

If the same force of 10 N is applied, but the box only moves 2 meters, the work done is:

W=10 N×2 m=20 J

So, the work done is 20 joules.

Part 4 - Quick Quiz:

1. What is the unit for measuring work done?

   • A) Newton

   • B) Joule

   • C) Meter

2. If a force of 15 N moves an object 3 meters, what is the work done?

   • A) 45 J

   • B) 45 N

   • C) 15 J

3. Which of the following causes work to be done?

   • A) Applying force without moving the object.

   • B) Moving an object without applying force.

   • C) Applying force that causes the object to move in the direction of the force.

Answers:

1. B

2. A

3. C

Part 5 - Challenge Yourself:

Task: Calculate the work done when a 20 N force is applied to move an object 10 meters.

Part 6 - Revision Tips:

• Remember the units: Force in newtons (N), distance in meters (m), and work in joules (J).

• Work done depends on the magnitude of the force and the distance moved by the object.

• If the force is at an angle, only the component of the force in the direction of movement contributes to the work done.

Part 7 - Real-World Connection:

Every time you push or pull something, work is being done! Whether you're lifting a box, driving a car, or even when gravity pulls you down, forces are doing work. Keep an eye on how work is done in everyday tasks!

Next time, we’ll explore the concept of energy transfer—don’t miss it!

Part 8 - More Help:

1. BBC Bitesize - Work Done and Energy Transfer
   BBC Bitesize
   This page explains how to calculate work done and the energy changes involved in motion, providing clear definitions and examples to aid understanding.

2. Save My Exams - Work Done and Energy Transfer
   Save My Exams
   This resource offers detailed notes on work done and energy transfer, including definitions, equations, and examples to help reinforce your knowledge.

3. YouTube Video - Work Done and Energy Transfer
   YouTube Video
   This video provides a comprehensive overview of work done and energy transfer, explaining the concepts with practical examples to enhance understanding.

These resources should assist you in mastering the concept of work done in physics.

Until next time keep revising!